Son Arrested After Mother's Dismembered Body Found in West Haven Home​

West Haven police have charged Theodore Lloyd following the discovery of his mother's dismembered body in trash bags during a welfare check.

WEST HAVEN, CONNECTICUT- Authorities in West Haven made a shocking discovery during a welfare check on March 24 that has since launched a homicide investigation. The body of 70-year-old Tina Lloyd was found dismembered and stored in 14 to 16 trash bags, hidden in a locked closet inside her home on Nashawen Avenue. Her son, 27-year-old Theodore Lloyd, has been arrested and faces charges in connection with her death, as well as attempted arson and trespassing.

West Haven police say they were contacted by Tina’s older son, who had not heard from her and requested a welfare check. Upon entering the home, officers were met with the overwhelming smell of decomposition. Inside a bedroom closet, they found the bags containing dismembered body parts and signs of an attempted arson, including lighter fluid and paper materials.

At a press conference, Police Chief Joe Perno explained that Tina Lloyd’s remains were so badly decomposed that it took time for forensic teams to identify her positively. DNA analysis was ultimately used to confirm her identity. Investigators spent weeks reviewing evidence, including surveillance footage that placed Theodore Lloyd at both Home Depot and Walmart purchasing tools believed to have been used in the dismemberment.

Detective Jeff Gavinelli confirmed the recovery of multiple cutting tools, including an electric chainsaw. “Many of these items were found hidden in plastic bags, likely to either destroy or conceal them from view,” Gavinelli said.

Theodore Lloyd, who had previously lived with his mother, reportedly moved out in 2018 following a domestic incident and was homeless at the time of the investigation. His arrest took place on April 14 in Hartford. He is currently being held on a $1 million bond. Authorities believe he acted alone, and more charges are expected to follow.

While a motive has not yet been disclosed, the community has been left stunned by the brutality of the crime. Neighbors said they hadn’t seen Tina in months and were unaware of anything suspicious happening at her home.

“She was a sweet woman. Always active, always independent,” said neighbor Denny Steeves. “If she had a bunch of groceries, I’d offer to help. She’d say, ‘No, this is how I get my exercise.’ It’s tragic, just tragic.”

The investigation remains active as police review evidence and await further forensic results.